Celiac disease is characterized by which of the following symptoms?

Celiac disease, also known as gluten-sensitive enteropathy, is primarily an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The hallmark gastrointestinal symptoms associated with celiac disease include diarrhea, abdominal distention, and weight loss.

In celiac disease, the ingestion of gluten leads to an inappropriate immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine, resulting in malabsorption of nutrients. As a consequence, individuals often present with chronic diarrhea due to the inability to effectively absorb fats and other nutrients. The distention arises from the accumulation of undigested food in the intestine and gas, which contributes to undue pressure and discomfort. Weight loss is a common consequence due to the malabsorption of calories and nutrients, along with decreased appetite that may result from gastrointestinal discomfort.

Other symptoms may present in celiac disease, including anemia, fatigue, and various complications stemming from nutritional deficiencies. However, the combination of diarrhea, abdominal distention, and weight loss is particularly distinctive and representative of the disease's gastrointestinal impact, making it the correct choice in this context.